The Honorary Consulate of Austria

in Seattle, WA

Serving Washington, Idaho, and Montana (and temporarily also OR, AK)

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Tel: +1 425-395-4382

office@austrianconsulateseattle.org

www.austrianconsulateseattle.org

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AUSTRIAN AMERICAN DAY CELEBRATION

Sunday, September 29, 2024

1:30pm: Reception - at the Headquarter of Seattle Mountain Rescue in North Bend. Please RSVP to Christina Calio or Eva Kammel

4pm: Movie “The Volunteers” screening at the historic North Bend Theater: tickets: https://events.seattlemountainrescue.org/

6pm: After Party at Volition Brewery in North Bend.

We are celebrating the historical connection between two mountain rescue organizations on opposite sides of the world - one near Seattle, the other in Tyrol, Austria. Take a journey with filmmaker Mark Weiner from America to Austria and back again as he considers the origins and meaning of their work.

Special guests of honor include Austria’s Ambassador Petra Schneebauer, Consul General Michael Postl, Trade Commissioner Volker Ammann and several local dignitaries. Hope you can join! For more information: see invitation

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Register as Austrian Living Abroad: Link to online registration (in German) Fill-In help in English

can be done anytime; necessary for the “Official” Austria to contact you with latest information, cultural events, and in case of emergency.

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Elections in Austria: Parliamentary Elections: Sunday, September 29, 2024

General Information about Elections and how to participate - Consulate General of Austria in Los Angeles

Information in German Information in English - Federal Ministry of the Interior

Register to Vote: Form (in German) Fill-In Help in German Fill in Help in English

List of voter offices in Vienna

can be done anytime; If you subscribe to the “10 year ABO”, you will get automatically the absentee ballots mailed to you for every election you are eligible to vote for the next 10 years.

Political System in Austria: Overview

Link to Parliament Website

Major Political Parties in Austria: summary of mission statements in English

Links to websites:

Österreichische Volkspartei („ÖVP“) Die Grünen Sozialdemokratische Partei (“SPÖ”) Freiheitliche Partei (“FPÖ”) Die NEOS

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The Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle is here to assist you in following consular matters:

Applications for citizenship (other than descendents of victims of Nazi prosecution - see below),

passport, ID cards for adults and minors,

personal documents, name change, certifications, criminal record, proof of life, and others.

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All Visa applications and inquiries must go through the Consulate General of Austria in Los Angeles.

Exception: Residency Permit for the Fulbright -USTA program teaching assistants.

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For Appointments at the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle:

office@austrianconsulateseattle.org or Tel: 425 395 4382

Thank You for your cooperation and being considerate in protecting us against Covid-19 infections

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Adult Passport Service (with fingerprints) at HC Seattle for Residents of WA, ID, MT, AK, and OR possible since June 2020:

For required documents, forms to download, etc, please check the website of the Consulate General in Los Angeles: www.austria-la.org -> Service für BürgerInnen -> Dokumente -> Passport: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-consulate-general-los-angeles/service-for-citizens/identity-papers-and-other-documents/passport

For scheduling an appointment: contact the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle: office@austrianconsulateseattle.org or Tel: 425 395 4382

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NEW Austrian ID - Card (Personalausweis)

With August 2021, the new, EU conform Austrian ID Card ( “Personalausweis”) includes fingerprints and can be used for travel within the EU. The Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle is accepting applications for the “Personalausweis”: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-consulate-general-los-angeles/service-for-citizens/identity-papers-and-other-documents/id-card/

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TRAVEL TO/FROM AUSTRIA

Travel to Austria

As of June 15, 2022, there are NO COVID-19 - RELATED ENTRY RESTRICTIONS FOR TRAVELERS TO AUSTRIA:

For the latest updated travel information please see the website of the Consulate General in Los Angeles: https://cms.bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-consulate-general-los-angeles/news/. Please check their website and with the airline as restrictions change frequently.

Please find further details see also website of the Austrian Embassy in Washington DC: https://www.austria.org/current-travel-information

Travel to US:

As of June 15, 2023 there are no Covid related restrictions for Austrian citizens travelling to the United States: https://botschaft.austria.org/reisehinweise

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Austrian citizenship for descendants of victims of Nazi persecution

On 19 September 2019 the Parliament of Austria unanimously approved an amendment to the Austrian law on citizenship in line with Austria’s ongoing endeavor for reconciliation with all those who suffered under the totalitarian Nazi-regime in Austria. Eligible persons will be able to lodge a claim as of 1 September 2020. 

For further details please visit Citizenship for Victims of the National Socialist Regime and their Direct Descendants.

Please note: According to the Austrian Citizenship Act, the Austrian diplomatic representation (Austrian Embassy or Consulate General) in the consular district where you have your main residence is responsible for your case. That is for all residents on the West Coast the Consulate General of Austria in Los Angeles. No other local representation can support you in submitting your declaration nor accept it.

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Project: Listening and Sharing:

Describe your hometown how you remember it and what prompted you to move away

Friends of Austria reflect on their Austrian roots. Enjoy reading! (submissions still in progress - you are encouraged to participate!)

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Click here for the latest Newsletter issued by the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle:

2024:

August 2024 July 2024

June 2024 May 2024 April 2024 March 2024 February 2024 Viennese Ball 2024 January 2024

2023:

December 2023 November 2023 October 2023 Invitation Austrian American Day September 2023

July 2023 June 2023 May 2023 April 2023 March 2023 February 2023 January 2023 Viennese Ball 23

2022:

December 2022 November 2022 October 2022 September 2022 Presidential Elections August 2022

June 2022 May 2022 April 2022 March 2022 Mid-March 2022 February 2022 January 2022

2021:

November/December 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021

May 2021 April 2021 April Physics News March 2021 February 2021 January 2021

2020:

December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 September 2020

August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 June 2020 -Special May 2020 April 2020

A4A March 2020 March 2020 March 2020 - Special February 2020 January 2020 - Special January 2020

2019:

December 2019; November 2019; October 2019; September 2019; August 2019; July 2019;

June 2019; May 2019; April 2019; March 2019; February 2019; January 2019

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From the Austrian Community in WA:

In recent years more and more Austrians are moving to the Pacific Northwest, mostly younger, highly talented professionals, recruited by one of the Tech giants in town. To connect Austrians living here and to serve their needs according to their interest and age, new forms of community platforms have emerged.  This is exciting, and it is important to support these efforts so that every Austrian living in the Pacific Northwest feels connected and included. These different groups help provide attractive and effective choices of social and professional connections, geared to different interests. Please see flyer of a summary of the diverse Austrian Groups and organizations in the Pacific Northwest.

 Please support each one of them as they all strive to fill the needs of Austrian expats in their various phases of life:

 A-BIT Community Seattle – Austrian Business, Innovation & Tech Community Seattle:

https://www.linkedin.com/groups/10471812/

 Networking, sharing expertise, experiences, and exchange of ideas

 This newly formed community emerged from the need and interest of Austrian professionals in the Seattle Region to form a platform to network, exchange interests, ideas, information emerging from the Tech and Business world. A LinkedIN Group was established, and you are invited to join to stay informed about each other’s work and latest developments in the Biz and Tech world. The first broader meeting of the A-BIT Community Seattle was held in August.  For more information check out and join the LinkedIN group.

 Meet-up: Austrian - Österreicher Gruppe:

https://www.meetup.com/Austrian-Stammtisch-and-Events/members/

Willst du andere Österreicher-innen in Seattle treffen? Vermißt Du, im Dialekt zu reden? Suchst Du Spaß und gute Laune? Wir freuen uns auf Dich beim nächsten Stammtisch!

 Contact: Jürgen Schatzer: juergenschatzer@gmail.com

Meets once a month virtually during the pandemic.This platform encourages to initiate other get-togethers, like singing group or book clubs or whatever idea you have.

 FACEBOOOK: Austrians in Seattle:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AustriansInSeattle/

Easy way to stay connected, get help, share and exchange items, meet and get together with fellow Austrians in the region

The group was recently launched to provide an easy communication tool for Austrians and Friends of Austrians living in the Greater Seattle Area to learn about relevant news and events and be able to provide help to each other. Become a member today and join the conversation.

AUSTRIA CLUB of WASHINGTON:

www.austriaclubwa.com .

A social organization founded in 1976, consisting of members of all walks of life, ages, and nationalities. The Club organizes various social events, manages special projects. Come and join, meet new friends, make a difference, enjoy the camaraderie of a group of people with similar interests. 

 Contact Club President: Michael Brandstetter: michael.brandstetter@gmail.com

This club organizes larger social events, like the Oktoberfest, Weihnachtsfest, the annual Viennese Ball, Maifest, among others. During the pandemic all events are held virtually. Nevertheless, they are fun! Come join this active group and enjoy these traditional and fun events! Volunteers are welcomed and needed; you will be rewarded while forming new friendships.

Austrian-American Council, WA State Chapter:

President: Christina Calio: christina@caliomusic.com

The AAC serves as platform for networking, connecting, and information exchange of the business and art world among Austrians and Friends of Austria. The AAC is especially devoted to welcoming the newly recognized Austrians to the Austrian Community. Join and stay connected with fellow Austrians !

Open Austria:

Are you in the IT business? Interested in a start-up, launch a tech company? Open Austria is here to help you! Open Austria is a joint initiative by the Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. Its mission is to connect Austrian entrepreneurs, startups, scientists, and creative minds to Silikon Valley and beyond and provide those who are already here with a home base. It is also our goal to shed light on the vast creative and innovative potential of Austria. The HQ is based in San Francisco,CA.

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Austrians for Austrians - A4A - Support Network

We all are experiencing difficulties and hardship during this pandemic. But also the wish for being there for each other. This platform was launched at the beginning of the pandemic to reach out, connect people who want to volunteer with those who would appreciate some support.

3 categories are addressing the most urgent needs, Please contact Eva Kammel with any question: office@austrianconsulateseattle.org, Tel: 425 395 4382

Shopping/food/essential errands:

to place a shopping list (once a week), pick up from pharmacy, post office, etc. Need some help with cooking? For all parts of WA, MT, ID as we want to reach out to the whole region. All volunteers adhere strictly to a minimum of 6ft distance. The modalities for paying, delivering are worked out individually between volunteer and receiving person.

Communication:

talk, communicate, offer support with kids learning, answer FAQ, etc. Phone calls, emails, virtual contact only, so it does not matter where you are

Tech support:

“helpdesk” via phone, email; support with computer/phone problems, online shopping, and other tech related problems. Phone calls, emails, virtual contact only, so it does not matter where you are

The Austria Club is reaching out regularly to its members with phone calls. If you have additional contacts who would like to receive/place calls, please help spread the word! When leaving a voice mail please mention right away that you are for A4A to distinguish you from unwanted robocalls.

If you live near the WA/OR border, you can also contact Egbert Kunrath (egbert.kunrath@gmail.com) who will then connect you with the Oregon “Austrians for Austrians“ platform.

Please get in contact with us if you can volunteer for any of these tasks or if you would benefit from any of these offers. Looking forward hearing from you!!

Wir halten zusammen! Bleib gesund und guten Mutes

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PAST EVENTS

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VIENNESE BALL - March 2, 2024

You are cordially invited to an evening in Viennese tradition - in the beautiful Madison Ballroom at the Renaissance Hotel in Seattle.
You will enjoy a delicious dinner, music and dance performances, and live dance music. All ladies will be greeted with a present from the City of Vienna including well wishes from the Mayor of the City of Vienna for an enjoyable evening.

For more detailed information, program preview, special offers, and the ticket sale: Viennese Ball . See also the invitation.

For any questions please contact the Chair of the Ball Committee Eva Donahoo

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Weihnachtsfeier and Christkindlmarkt - Sunday, December 3, 2023; 2:30 - 6pm

at the Kenmore Community Center; 7304 NE 175th St, Kenmore, organized by the Austria Club.

Come for a bit or the whole time - bring your family!
For more information see the invitation or contact Michael Brandstetter: michael.brandstetter@gmail.com

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Sunday, October 29, 2023: 2-5 pm; Austrian National Holiday at the German House in downtown Seattle

On October 26, Austria is celebrating its National Holiday, commemorating the declaration of independence after 10 years of occupation after WWII by the Soviet Union, Great Britain, the United States, and France. Austria declared everlasting neutrality on October 26, 1955, creating a buffer zone between the East and the West. The last foreign soldier left the then free and sovereign country.  It marked the only Cold War era withdrawal by the Soviet Union from a territory it occupied.

We enjoyed Music (Ann Rackl Quartet), Austrian desserts, a presentation by an Austrian/Seattle artist couple, information about 

elections in Austria in 2024, and mingling with friends!

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Sunday, October 1, 2023: Austrian American Day Celebration: with special guests from Vienna:

• Katja Otter from the Austrian Business Agency www.aba.at will inform about the support ABA can lend to individuals/families planning on moving to Austria.

• Hannelore Veith will explore the possibility to open an Alumni Chapter of the University of Vienna in Seattle

Please contact Christina Calio for more information

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21st VIENNESE BALL IN SEATTLE - MARCH 4, 2023

Nile Country Club

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Saturday, December 3, 2022: 1-dusk

Rhododendron Park in Kenmore, 6910 NE 170th Str,

Christkindlmarket

If you can help out. contribute Christmas goodies, arts, crafts, or with questions: Please contact Elana Sabajon: youcan@askelana.com . For more information see attached invitation.

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Sunday, December 4, 2022: 3-6pm

German House, 613 9th Ave, Seattle

Weihnachtsfeier

organized by the Austria Club of WA.

Traditional Christmas music, food and Gluehwein, and a visit by St. Nikolaus will provide a gemuetliche atmosphere!

For more information, please see attached flyer and contact Michael Brandstetter: michael.brandstetter@gmail.com

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Saturday, October 29, 2022; 6-11 pm

Kenmore Community Hall, 7304 NE 175th At., Kenmore

AUSTRIAN NATIONAL HOLIDAY & OKTOBERFEST

By combining the celebration of Austria’s National Holiday (October 26) with the tradition of thanking for the harvest we aim for a social gathering filled with music, food, dancing, and making new and connecting with old friends! We hope you can join! For more information, please see invitation or contact Michael Brandstetter (President of the Austria Club of WA): michael.brandstetter@gmail.com

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Happy Austrian American Day – September 26!

Austrian American Day Celebration - September 25, 2022

from 2-4 at the Holocaust Center of Humanity, 2045 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.

The Austrian American Council West-WA Chapter, the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle, and the Austria Club gathered with over 80 guests at the Holocaust Center for Humanity in Seattle, to commemorate Austrian-American Day. Austrian-American Day was established by President Bill Clinton on September 26th, 1997, to commemorate the many contributions of Americans of Austrian descent and to highlight the productive and friendly relationship between the two nations.

At this occasion we welcomed newly recognized Austrian citizens in the PNW who have received dual citizenship as a result of an ongoing effort by the Republic of Austria for reconciliation with those who suffered under the totalitarian Nazi regime, and their descendants.

We want to especially thank Dr. Michael Postl, Consul General of the Republic of Austria who flew in from Los Angeles especially for this occasion, Lt. Governor Denny Heck for his video message, Dee Simon, CEO of the Holocaust Center for opening their doors, and for King County’s Proclamation of the Austrian American Day. Highlights were the stories we heard from survivors and their descendants; they moved us to tears but encouraged us even more to show our new fellow Austrians that we care, respect, and will never forget. Musical contributions from the Ann Rackl Quartet and Fred Mitterndorfer on his zither, champagne, coffee and all kinds of Strudels from The Little Prague Bakery comforted us. Special thanks go out to Christina Calio, Elana Sabajon, and Michael Brandstetter and to everyone who participated!

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Sunday, December 12, 2021: noon to dusk

AUSTRIAN CHRISTKINDLMARKET at the Rhododendron Park in Kenmore, 6910 NE 170th Street.

Featuring baked goods, Cider, Christmas Music; Special Guest Appearance by St. Nikolaus between 2 - 2:30pm. Bring your family! For more information: see here or contact Michael Brandstetter: michael.brandstetter@gmail.com

Thanks to the many volunteers, and of course St. Nikolaus, who made this event in spite of cold weather a fun gathering!

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December 6, 2021: Another Big change in the Austrian Government:

After Sebastian Kurz quit all his political functions and Alexander Schallenberg also resigned from his post as interim chancellor, a new Chancellor, Karl Nehammer was appointed and sworn in as new Chancellor by President VanDerBellen on December 6, 2021. This was already the 6th inauguration during his first term as Austria’s president. Also, several new OeVP minister got also sworn in as a result of a major government shake-up. The minority coalition party “Die Gruene” did not change their ministers. Neither of the parties are hoping for new elections so there should be enough stability to concentrate on the pressing issues, like battling the Covid crisis.

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On October 26, 1955, Austria declared its everlasting neutrality, committed to defend it and to contribute as neutral nation to peace in the world. Since 1967 this day is declared as National Holiday. Austria can consider itself fortunate to have been granted this everlasting neutrality so it could work on a prosperous and peaceful progress to overcome the ashes of WWII as well as towards peace and equity around the world. Of course, even in peaceful Austria there were and - actually right now - are political rollercoasters but overall, democracy is fully functioning and correcting wrongful deviations. Of course, as a small nation the international contributions and influence are limited but nevertheless, Austria can and is playing a role model for example by the steps taken to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Austrian National Holiday -  Austrian American Day

Celebration on October 24, 2021

with Q&A with our guest of honor Consul General of Austria, Dr. Michael Postl, and a virtual travel to the 9 State Capitals presented with a personal touch by locals of the respective region.

If you missed the event: see here  

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Cancelled because of Covid Concerns

Gathering of Friends of Austria: Picnic in the Park

All Friends of Austria are welcomed! Bring your family!

When: Saturday, September 11, 2021, 2-6pm

Where: Seward Park, Picnic shelter #5, Seattle

Please RSVP latest until September 7, 2021 to Rosie Mulholland (mulho@comcast.net) or Eva Donahoo (ewdcpa@comcast.net)

For more information, Covid precautions and RSVP please see here

Important: Due to the evolving Covid -19 situation we will decide on September 7, 2021, if we can host the event.

Please stay tuned!

National Mourning - November 2, 2020

In the aftermath of the horrific and heartbreaking events on the evening of November 2, 2020, in the inner city of Vienna, the Austrian government has declared a 3 day period of national mourning and ordered half-masting of the Austrian flag. Today at 12 noon a nationwide moment of silence is observed in honor of the victims.  

Austria's President Alexander VanDerBellen reacted deeply moved: "Our thoughts and wishes are with the victims, the injured and their families. We will defend our freedom and democracy together and determined with all possible means. Too hard was fought for this democracy to give in easily. Who assumes that does not know us. Hate will not fall on fruitful soil in our society. We will protect and defend our values with all what Vienna stands for, what Austria stands for, with all we believe in, we declare: hate can never be as strong as our solidarity in freedom and democracy, in tolerance and love. Es lebe die Freiheit, es lebe unsere Republik Österreich, es lebe unser gemeinsames friedliches Europa". 

Here is the declaration of the Austrian Government and a message from Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg in German and English. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with our friends and families in Austria. We are united in solidarity and mourning with you.

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Past Events 2020:

Joint CELEBRATION: AUSTRIAN AMERICAN DAY - AUSTRIAN NATIONAL HOLIDAY

Vitual event on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at 4pm. It was a special honor that Austria’s Consul General in Los Angeles, Andreas Launer, could join us live!

Austria regained independence after WWII in 1955 and the last foreign soldier of the occupying forces left the country on October 25 of that year. To celebrate freedom, sovereignty, and democracy for Austria but also for every other country is today more important than ever. Emerging from the ashes of war, dictatorship, and hate, what a thriving and blooming country with highest standards of living Austria became in the years since, governed by the principles of democracy. We know from Austria’s history how precious but fragile these values are. What seemed to be steadfast pillars of values for the society can crumble and being destroyed faster than imagined.

Let us celebrate and work towards peace, freedom and democracy not only for Austria but around the world, wherever we are.

Special Video Greetings on the occasion of the National Holiday from the Consulate General of Austria in Los Angeles: https://vimeo.com/472060422

20th Viennese Ball, Saturday, February 29, 2020.

The Asutrian community is grateful that we could enjoy this last social event before the lock-down started. It was a lovely evening filled with music, dance, and fun with old and new friends. Tha city of Vienna again sponsoired with lovely “Damenpenden”

New Government in Austria: January 7:

After 7 months of the well-respected Interim Government under the leadership of Brigitte Bierlein, on January 7, 2020, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen swore in a new Austrian Federal Government formed by the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) and the ecologist Green Party. He demanded a governing in the spirit of “rot-weiss-rot”. The new Government is once again led by Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who already served in this capacity from 2017 to 2019. Werner Kogler of the Green Party was appointed Vice-Chancellor. Alexander Schallenberg was reappointed Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs. This is the first time the Conservative Party ÖVP and the Green Party are working together in a coalition. The hopes and expectations for this constellation are high and the Austrian public is expecting a forward-thinking government confronting the most pressing issues including the economic and environmental welfare of the people. It's a government of two firsts: 1st conservative-green coalition and 1st time women as a majority among cabinet ministers!

For a list of ministers: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/en/federal-chancellery/the-austrian-federal-government/ministers.html

2019:

WEIHNACHTSFEST: Decemeber 1, 2-5pm at the German House, organized by the Austria Club; www.austriaclubwa.com

Austrian National Holiday Celebration: Saturday, October 26: 2-5pm at the German House in downtown Seattle.

Special presentations by 2 young accomplioshed Austirans about their work; Andreas Pedross-Engel, ASciNA award 2018: “What is millimeter wave imaging?” and

Christopher Purrer: Senior Software Engineer at Facebook: “Working at a Tech Giant in Seattle”, followed by Austrian dessert, music and Gemuetlichkeit!

OKTOBERFEST, Saturday, September 28, 6 – 11pm, at the German House, 613 9th Ave, Seattle.

This fun annual event featuring the Enzian Schuhplattler, music by the Bonnie Birch Trio, festival dinner, dancing and much more is organized by the Austria Club of WA.

Thursday, August 15: First meeting at large from A-BIT Seattle Community at the Facebook Quarter in Seattle: gathering of Austrian professionals working in Tech and Innovation

Saturday, June 29: SOMMERFEST - 3pm, Seward Park, Shelter # 5 – Es wird a Grillerei! It was a fun, gathering for the whole family and to meet fellow Austrians of all ages!

Saturday, May 4, 2019: MAIFEST ; 1-5pm at the Kenmore Community Center; organized by the Austria Club of WA. Fun with the whole family and with “Happy Hans” and the Enzian Schuhplattler!

April 15: Silent Movie: “Stadt ohne Juden” at the Paramount Theater. Hosting a reception before the movie introducing Dr. Wostry, director Austrian Film Archive, Gunther Buchwald, composer of the score presented by the ensemble Music of Remembrance, Eleanor Weston, granddaughter of Hugo Bettauer (autor of the book the movie is based upon) and Cunthia Walk, sponsor towards restoration efforts, to the Austrian community. The moving honest introductory words of Dr. Wostry were well received by the over 1,000 people audience at the theater. An interesting round table discussion after the show rounded up a amazing evening.

April 6-7, 2019: International Children’s Friendship Festival: Seattle Center; We could welcome many young visitors at the Asutria table and introduce them to some Asutrian traditions interesting to them. Our own young hosts were the best ambassadors!

March 2, 2019: !9th Viennese Ball ; Nile Cub, Mountlake Terrace. An elegant evening with music and dance performances, delicate dinner and dancing to life band until midnight!

February 24, 2019: German House: Membership meeting of the Austria Club - election of board members

Past Events 2018:

December 2: Weihnachtsfest, at the German House, organized by the Austria Club of WA

November 26-28: Visit of Consul General Andreas Launer and Trade Commissioner Walter Koren in Seattle. The Agenda included high ranking meetings with Amazon, Boeing , UW German Department, CAPiTA, and a social evening with Friends of Austria.

November 10: 100 Year Republic of Austria: Celebration at the German House with guest speaker Prof. David Large , Austrian Studies Program at UC Berkeley

October 21: Austrian National Holiday Celebration: at the SIFF Film Forum, featuring the movie “Farewell to Europe” , about the struggles of the famous Austrian author Stefan Zweig in his exile.

October 19-21: KINOFEST: German language Movies Festival at SIFF.

September 24: Austrian American Day Celebration: at the headquarter of CAPiTA , a snowboard company with production in Carinthia, Austria, and headquarter in Seattle.

August 5: Zauberflöte , production by GVAI

MAIFEST: Saturday, May 5, 1-5 pm, Kenmore Community Hall: 

organized by the Austria Club of Washington, www.austriaclubwa.com. A fun event for the whole family where we could enjoy good food, special raffle, dancing to live music by Happy Hans, plus the Enzian Schuhplattler! 

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April 22-24: Visit of Austrian Business Delegation in Seattle

20 young CEOs, representatives of the "Junge Wirtschaft" and of Advantage Austria in Los Angeles visited Seattle on their trip "Zukunft und Innovation". Visits of Microsoft, Boeing, Amazon , Burllitt Center, UW Co-Motion,  a networking dinner with local Austrians , and a spectacular sailing trip in the Puget Sound with sunshine let Seattle show at its best. 

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April 14-15:  International Children's Friendship Festival: http://childrensfest.tacawa.org/

at the Fischer Pavilion at the Seattle Center. We hosted an Austria table could share with many young visitors some impressions of Austria and "Manner Schnitten"!.

Over 6000 visitors and 35 countries enjoyed  this fun event with music, food, games and a "journey around the world!"  

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February 24, 2018: 18th Viennese Ball  at the Nile Club

A "rauschende Ballnacht"  with musical and dance performances, dancing to live music, elegant dinner and entertaining with friends was enjoyed by all guests. Mark your calendar for the 19th Viennese Ball  March 3, 2019! You don't want to miss this Viennese tradition brought to the Pacific Northwest! 

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January 1, 2018, 7 pm, PBS, KCTS 9: Great Performances: ringing in the new year with the cherished tradition of the New Year's Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra with Maestro Riccardo Muti.  The Vienna Philharmonic’s traditional New Year’s program is the largest worldwide event in classical music reaching millions of people annually through radio and television in over 80 countries. The program has showcased Viennese musical culture at the highest level, and since the first television broadcast in 1959, sent the world a New Year’s greeting in the spirit of hope, friendship and peace.

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Past Events 2017

Thursday, December 28, 7pm,  Nordstrom Recital Hall at the Benaroya Hall, Seattle : An Evening with Viennese classics,  a Baroque and Classical chamber music concert with Byron Schenkman & Friends, playing for the fifth season.

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Visit of high ranking Business Delegation from Styria in Seattle, Monday, November 6:

A delegation of 55 members of government, chamber of commence, and representatives from diverse businesses visited the city of Seattle, Microsoft and Boeing, to gather inspirations and visions, and information on future international expansion and connections. The visitors were impressed by the quality of life, charm, and plentiful opportunities the Seattle region offers.  There was also an opportunity for Austrians to meet with members of the delegation . The inside information coming from "Landsleute" was especially appreciated. Here is a report of this trip by ORF Steiermark: see http://steiermark.orf.at/news/stories/2876645/

After Seattle this largest delegation from Austria ever to the West Coast headed to Silicon Valley.

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Austria Booth at the EU Fair at Central Washington University and Consular Service in Ellensburg, WA, November 9

At the EU Fair at Central Washington University (www.cwu.edu) many CWU students, especially seniors, were very interested in the Fulbright Teaching Assistant Program in Austria .  For more information on Fulbright Austria see: https://www.fulbright.at/. 

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Visit of high ranking Business Delegation from Styria in Seattle, Monday, November 6:

A delegation of 55 members of government, chamber of commence, and representatives from diverse businesses visited the city of Seattle, Microsoft and Boeing, to gather inspirations and visions, and information on future international expansion and connections. The visitors were impressed by the quality of life, charm, and plentiful opportunities the Seattle region offers.  There was also an opportunity for Austrians to meet with members of the delegation . The inside information coming from "Landsleute" was especially appreciated. Here is a report of this trip by ORF Steiermark: see http://steiermark.orf.at/news/stories/2876645/

After Seattle this largest delegation from Austria ever to the West Coast headed to Silicon Valley.

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Movie to get ready for Halloween: Saturday, October 28, 7:30pm, Northwest Film Forum in Capitol Hill: Therapy for a Vampire … 500 years of marriage is enough; Sigmund Freud's newest patient is a vampire fed up with his undying relationship with his wife; David Ruhm, Austria 2014, Comedy/horror. In German, w/ English subtitles.

This hilarious horror movie is the prelude to this year's KINOFEST at the Northwest Film Forum in Seattle, Capitol Hill, November 17 -19. For the interesting line-up of movies form Austria, Germany and Switzerland check out : https://nwfilmforum.org/festivals/kinofest-seattle-2017/

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Austrian National Holiday Celebration: Sunday, October 22, 2-5pm, at the German House, 613 9th Ave , Seattle

Program includes a special presentation by UW Music Director David Alexander Rahbee about his musical journey from Vienna to the UW Symphony, music, and authentic Austrian desserts. See invitation. Bring your family and join this gemuetliche Beisammensein! Organized by the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Seattle and the Austria Club of WA. RSVP to Rosie Mulholland (mulho@comcast.net) or to Eva Kammel (office@austrianconsulateseattle.org).

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German Children's Book Reading by famous Author: Werner Holzwarth in German: Saturday, October 7, 10 am at GLS (German Languange School) in Seattle, 5001 NE 50th Street. For more information see here.

Austrian American Day, Sunday, September 24, 3-6pm, at the Mercer Music Hall at NW Pianos, Bellevue

We celebrated the strong ties between the 2 countries by discussing about the opportunities and challenges facing the business community. A round table discussion with Friends of Austria who have experience in starting a business should be the beginning of building a network among the business community with connections to Austria. Many Thanks to Basilio Strmec and NW Pianos for generously sponsoring this event.

Oktoberfest: Saturday, September 16, 6-11pm at the Kenmore Community Hall

Musical entertainment by Happy Hans and the Enzian Schuhplattler ensured a fun evening with a ;lot of dancing and Gemuetlichkeit!

Soccer Game Outing: July 8th, 2017: Seattle Sounders against German Bundesliga Club Eintracht Frankfurt

The Austria Club of Washington organized discounted group tickets for 60 soccer fans to watch this friendly game and to have fun! They tied 1 : 1.

June 6: Austrian's Trade Commissioner Dr. Rudolf Thaler participated in the “City of Seattle Business and Innovation Tour”: in a fascinating showcase of the city’s tech and start-up business landscape we had the opportunity to meet with researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, hear from Vulcan Real Estate about the redevelopment of the South Lake Union neighborhood, talk with Amazon executives about the company’s global business activities, and interact with representatives of Seattle’s start-up community at CoMotion at the University of Washington. The City of Seattle presented impressively its open, international economy that attracts businesses, talent, and investment from across the globe.

MAIFEST : Saturday, May 13, 2017, 1-5pm, Kenmore Community Hall,  organized by the Austria Club of WashingtonThis is a family friendly event with music by Happy Hans and participatory dance around the Maibaum by the Enzian Schuhplattler. Good food, fun for all, and a chance to meet other friends of Austria!

7th International Children’s Friendship Festival, Saturday, April 15, 2017, at the Seattle Center: Many thanks to all the families who volunteered hosting the Austria Table . It was especially interesting and enjoyable to watch children being ambassadors of and talking with enthusiasm about their country. We had many visitors at our colorful table interested in learning more about Austria. Looking forward to next year’s event!

Austria Table at the 7th International Children's Friendship Festival:

March 25, 2017: Celebrating 60 years of the Treaty of Rome, the foundation of the European Union!

The European Union stands for peace, prosperity and solidarity. Austria is a proud member of the EU since 1995. For 60 reasons we need the European Union: http://ec.europa.eu/austria/sites/austria/files/eugute60gruende_eu_at_final.pdf

Visit of Consul General Ulrike Ritzinger in Seattle: March 9-12, 2017

Our thanks go out to Austria’s Consul General Ulrike Ritzinger and Cornelia Fahrgruber for their visit to Seattle, March 9-11, and giving the Austrians living in WA, ID, and MT the opportunity for consular services usually only available in Los Angeles. Over 40 applications could be processed during these “Amtstage”. In addition, CG Ritzinger pursued political matters in meetings with the Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s office and with Lt. Gov. Cyrus Habib in Olympia. A social highlight was their attendance at the 17th Viennese Ball, a wonderful, glittering evening filled with music, dance, and entertainment for all guests. CG Ritzinger praised event as the most authentic Viennese Ball outside of Vienna! You can follow CG Ritzinger’s twitter feed she posted during these days: https://twitter.com/UlrikeRitzinger

17th Viennese Ball: March 11, 2017, from 5:30 pm until midnight – celebrating 150 years of the “Donauwalzer”The Austria Club of Washington was once again hosting this elegant event at the Nile Country Club in Mountlake Terrace, WA. Our Guest of Honor: Hon. Consul General of Austria in Los Angeles, Ulrike Ritzinger. This beautiful and glittering evening was a huge success and all the guests enjoyed music, dance and entertainment. Math thanks to all the volunteers and the ball committee! For recap and photos see: www.austriaclubwa.com

4th EURO – START-UP Week-end: February 10-12: Amazon Building, Seattle, http://www.up.co/communities/usa/seattle/startup-weekend/9296

Children’s Film Festival in Seattle: Jan 26 – Feb 11. http://www.childrensfilmfestivalseattle.org/ at the Northwest included 4 German movies for Children at the Northwest Film Forum.

Special screening: STEFAN ZWEIG: FAREWELL TO EUROPE ; Sunday, February 5, 2017, 7:00PM @ CINEMA21, Portland, OR. Discussion with writer-director Maria Schrader following the screening, Organized by Portland German Film Festival: http://www.portlandgermanfilmfestival.com.

Austria has a new President: Prof. Dr. Alexander Van der Bellen pledged to work for tolerance and moderation,  to put "das Gemeinsame vor das Trennende", and that "unser Europa zusammenrückt und sich nicht auseinanderdividieren lässt"

Past Events in 2016:

DECEMBER 4: WEIHNACHTSFEST: 1-5 pm at the German House (913 9th Ave, Seattle), organized by the Austria Club  this traditional Holiday Event for the whole family.

November 12/ 13: Viennese Boys' Choir performed in the Seattle Area: 

November 12: Winefest 2016 : organized by the Austria Club of Tacoma: Saturday, November 12, 5-11 pm, at the Lakewood Elks in Lakewood. For more information call Roland Krebs 253-589-9816.

October 23: Austrian National Holiday Celebration: at the German House in downtown Seattle, 913 9th Street, 2-5 pm. The Austria Club of Washington together with the Honorary Consulate in Seattle organized this holiday event with music, Austrian dessert, and Gemuetlichkeit! Guest speaker Prof. Raimund Pichler, nephrologist at UW, gave a very much appreciated talk about his journey form the Allgemeine Krankenhaus to UW Medicine and contributions of famous Austrian physician.

October 7-9: Seattle KINOFEST at the Northwest Film Forum, 1515 12th Ave in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle: a festival featuring German language films from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Please see flyer at http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=0883ed6debc50205ed269f31f&id=4df49e97e9&e=dbf69095fe . The Austrian contribution was “Streif, One Hell of a Ride”, an amazing documentation about the world famous downhill race.

Sunday, September 25, AUSTRIAN AMERICAN DAY Celebration, 4pm, Grumpy D’s Café http://grumpydsballard.com/, organized by the Austrian American Council, WA Chapter. Coffee and cake was be served at this casual get-together to celebrate the friendship between the 2 countries, documented in the proclamation of the Austrian-American Day issued by President Clinton 19 years ago. .

Saturday, September 17, 6-11pm, Kenmore Community Hall: OKTOBERFEST, organized by the Austria Club of Washington.The guests had fun time with tasty food, dancing and music by Happy Hans and the Enzian Schuhplattler.

August 12 and 13,  Die Zauberflöte  by W. A. Mozart

August 9: A Midsummer Night's Music; as the final productions of a summer's long work led by Christine Menschner (we could hear her beautiful voice at the Viennese Ball 2016!) and GVAI students. For more information: www.gvai.org

Saturday, June 25: 2pm: at Century Link, Sounders vs New York City FC

The Austrian soccer star Andreas Ivanschitz organized discount tickets and a wonderful meet & greet after the Sounders game for 40 Friends of Austria! It was a fabulous event. We could “fachsimpeln” during the game, soaked in the great atmosphere at the stadium, and we especially enjoyed talking to Andreas about his life as a professional soccer player. He has such a sympathetic and kind personality and has now an Österreicher Fan Club! Let’s go again, when is the next game?! Wishing Andreas and the Sounders a great second half of the season!

June 2 ,3  at Communications 120: The UW Department of Germanics presents the Student Production: "Deutsch für Fortgeschrittene: Grenzenlos und Unverschämt"

Saturday, May 14, 1 - 5 pm, at the Kenmore Community Club, 73rd Ave NE and NE Bothell Way, Kenmore: MAIFEST, a fun filled Alpine celebration of Spring, organized by the Austria Club of WA, www.austriaclubwa.com. Musical entertainment by Happy Hans and members of the Enzian Schuhplattler.

May 6 and May 7: "Eine Reise um die Welt", a family friendly musical journey performed in German, hosted by SAGA,  GLS and Zeitgeist Northwest. For more information info@sagaschool.org

Saturday, April 16, Seattle Center, International Children's Friendship Festival http://childrensfest.tacawa.org/ . The Austrian Community exhibited Austrian traditions and culture especially geared towards children at an “Austria Table”. We had many visitors of all ages who enjoyed learning about Austria and tasting Austrian chocolate!

Saturday, March 12, 2016: 16th Viennese Ball: This celebration of a true Viennese tradition included dance shows, elegant dinner, musical performances, dancing until midnight and much much more! Austrians and friends of Austria, and several members of the Consular Association enjoyed a "Rauschende Ballnacht". Looking alread forward to the 17th Viennese Ball in 2017! For photos and recap see the website of the Austria Club

Friday, January 29 - Sunday, January 31, 2016    Euro Start- Up Week-End http://www.up.co/communities/usa/seattle/startup-weekend/6911

Members of the Austrian Community participated in this exchange of ideas and networking among creative people, many of them with European background or connections. Thank you Eva Schoenleitner and Alex Stoklas for serving as a judge resp. coach.

Friday, January 22, 2016: featuring young soprano Christine Menschner ; A Viennese New Year Concert

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Past Events in 2015:

Sunday, December 6, 1-5pm, Benson Barn, North Bend

WEIHNACHTSFEST 

organized by the Austria Club of Washington

Felt just like being in an Alpine village during Advent, friends brought their families, and enjoyed Austrian traditions surrounding Christmas time, from Gluehwein, St. Nikolaus, potluck, to Alpine holiday music.  Many thanks to the Austria Club and all the tireless helpers for organizing this gemuetiche Fest!

Sunday, October 25, 2015: 2-5pm @ German House:

Austrian National Holiday Celebration

60 Years if Independence, Neutrality and Sovereignty!

On May 15, 1955, after 10 years of occupation and at in a rare moment in history, Soviet Union, Great Britain, England and United States signed the declaration of Independence, and Bundeskanzler Leopold Figl declared form the balcony of the Belvedere: Österreich ist Frei!!!

6 months later Austria declared permanent Neutrality. We celebrated this final step towards freedom by listening to reports of "Zeitzeugen", sharing stories, music, Austrian dessert and wine. Thank you all for contributing to a wonderful event and a better understanding of history.

We also used this event to express out Thank You to the families and individuals who offered tremendous help for the Derschmidt Family during the times of crisis.

Thank you Sissy Altom for providing the most delicious K&K Zwetschkenkuschen!

Saturday, October 10, 2015:                                                                             Oktoberfest

organized by the Austria Club of Washington.

September 27: 2-5 pm @ German House:

Austrian-American-Day Celebration

in recognition of the 18th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Austrian-American Day by then President Bill Clinton. We honored retiring president of the WA Chapter of the Austrian-American-Council Claire Rood and introducing the new president, Michael Brandstetter. Among our destinguished guests were Lt. Gov. Brad Owen, several memebrs of the WA Consular Association , guest speaker Bruno Kracher, CEO Vienna Region, office of Marketing of the Vienna Region.

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September 24, 6pm @ Edgewater Hotel:

VIENNA REGION - Innovation & Technology in Central Europe

The Marketing Office of the Vienna Region www.viennaregion.at hosted an event to promote the Region around Vienna as attractive business location. Participants of the business community used this unique opportunity for networkingtogether with COE Bruno Kracher, Harald Leitenmueller (Microsoft Austria),  Moritz Plassnig (Global Technology Boston/Vienna), Dr. Rudolf Thaler (Austrian Trade Commissioner)

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September 12,  @ the Queen Anne Christian Church, 1316 3rd Ave W, Seattle:   "Vienna to Broadway: A Musical Metamorphosis".

Soprano Christine Menschner and Tenor Derek Sellers accompanied by pianist Jason Suchan gave a startling performance.  Christine entertained us already with her beautiful voice at the last Viennese Ball. It is exciting to see the career of this young, very talented artist evolving.

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July 16: Special Movie Night"WOMAN IN GOLD" organized by the Austria Club with gemuetliches get-together afterwards

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May 28-29, 2015:

Honorarkonsulartagung in Wien , Reflections

End of May I had the privilege to participate inthe Honorarkonsultagung in Vienna, a get-together of Honorary Consuls from around the world arranged every 10 years by the Aussenministerium. Out of the 300 HCs world wide about 1/2 of them could join.  It was very well organized, we got a thorough update on what is happening in Austria and our duties as HC. We were treated with delicious authentic Austrian food, an elegant dinner at the Naturhistorischem Museum with a nightly view of the glistering city from the roof top of the Museum, a trip to the Wachau, and many more exciting moments. Highlights included a visit with the Austrian President Dr. Fischer and the Austrian Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz. It was an inspiring and fun time we could spend in Vienna deepening our commitment to Austria and to serving all Austrians in our region.

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May 14-15, 2015

Visit of Honorary Consul to Yakima, WA

It was a pleasure to follow an invitation by IWAY (http://www.iway-yakima.org/), arranged by longtime Austria Club member Freya Burgstaller, and to give a presentation about Austria, that was preceded by delicious traditional Austrian cuisine, Goulash and Kaiserschmarrn!  Austrian wines, provided graciously by Freya rounded up a very enjoyable evening. A visit of the German language class at West Valley High School provided another possibility to promote highlights about Austria. Freya and the small but vibrant Austrian community in Yakima is hoping for a follow-up visit organized by the Club.

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March 11-15, 2015:

Visit of a Delegation to Seattle from the Austrian Consulate General, Los Angeles:

Speaking for the Austrian Community of the greater Seattle area I want to express gratitude to the Austrian Consulate General, Los Angeles, for extending a complete consulate service during the Amtstage March 12-13, 2015. The huge demand showed how much appreciated this service was. Especially we want to thank Ms. Andrea Mais-Siffert for her patient, helpful and professional support to Austrians to get their “paper work” in order.

Busy days included a meeting with the Lt. Governor Brad Owen who arranged thoughtfully that the Austrian Flag was raised during our visit at the Capitol. Trade Commissioner Dr. Rudolf Thaler joined to emphasize the importance of in the economic exchange between Austria and Washington State.

The Österreicher Dinner at the Salmon House was a lovely evening where we could get to know our Honorable Consul General Ulrike Ritzinger.

A luncheon on Friday provided GC Ritzinger the opportunity to meet with other members of the Consular Association of Washington.

Definitely the highlight of this visit was the presence of GC Ritzinger at the 15th Viennese Ball. Her charming, yet natural personality was admired and no icebreaker was needed for many to talk to her, get a photo shoot, or even to dance with her. She brought a piece of “Heimat” to the Northwest.

Herzlichen Dank!